COLIN Fleming believes Leon Smith deserves as much credit as Andy Murray for the transformation of Britain’s Davis Cup fortunes.

Team GB were languishing in the lower reaches of the competition when Smith was named skipper five years ago.

Relegation battles against tennis also-rans Turkey, Luxembourg and Hungary were the order of the day in the Europe/Asia Zone.

However, with Murray as his talisman, Smith has delivered good on his promise of turning his squad into genuine title contenders.

Britain can take a huge step closer to that goal this weekend when they host the USA, with the winners set to face either France or Germany for a place in the semi-finals.

Doubles specialist Fleming, who narrowly missed out on selection for this weekend’s crunch clash, was part of the team that beat the United States in San Diego last year and he is backing them to repeat that triumph in Glasgow this weekend.

He said: “I was involved when Leon first came in and his message to the team was that he wanted to start a journey to the World Group.

“That is where we reached last year and we are here again this year.

“It’s been an amazing journey and there is no doubt Andy is the leader and spearhead of the team.

“But Leon has been instrumental in the recent progress while it is also great to have guys in the team who are capable of winning other rubbers.

“Leon is a very positive person and has great motivational qualities.

“He has a great feel for Davis Cup and gives the team the best possible chance to get the job done.”

Smith’s side will enjoy home advantage this weekend at the Emirates Arena with Murray set for an emotional homecoming and brother Jamie also part of the set-up.

James Ward and Dominic Inglot complete the quartet to face the Americans, who have John Isner and world No.1 doubles pair Bob and Mike Bryan in their ranks. Fleming is urging his fellow Scots to grasp the chance to savour something special.

He said: “Whenever his career finishes Andy will go down as one of the best players ever to play the game.

“I’m sure Andy views this tie as something extremely special and it will be special for the fans.

“There are no main tour events in Scotland so you seldom get a chance to play in front of your home crowd.

“At Wimbledon you play in front of a home crowd but playing in Scotland is always extra special.

“This is as big a tennis event in Scotland in my lifetime.

“The previous ties have been amazing but this will be the best yet.

“When they go out for the opening ceremony there will be goose bumps.”